Tooth pain can range from minor to extreme. A number of issues can cause pain, and appropriate treatment varies by case.

What Are Growing Pains?

Pain can occur when teeth break through the gums. Infants experience pain when their baby teeth come in, and older children can feel discomfort when baby teeth they have lost are replaced by adult teeth. In most cases, all that is needed is a mild pain reliever.

Growing pains are also felt by adolescents and young adults whose wisdom teeth enter behind their molars. Pain from wisdom teeth is most extreme when the tooth becomes impacted.  Impacted wisdom teeth can cause numerous oral problems. If this occurs, your dentist will often advise extraction of the impacted tooth.

Pain from a Cracked Tooth

It is not difficult to crack a tooth. Chewing or biting hard objects can cause cracks.  If you have a cracked tooth, cold or hot temperatures and certain foods can cause pain.

In some instances, cracked teeth can be repaired.  In others, the tooth may need to be extracted and replaced by an implant of some sort.

Pain from a Tooth Infection

Tooth infections can be extremely painful.  They can also be dangerous to your overall health.  The bacteria from an infection can spread throughout your body and cause infections in other areas.

While home remedies may relieve the symptoms of an infection, it is better to consult with your dentist.  Prescription antibiotics are often effective in treating tooth infections.  However, if the infection is severe, or if the tooth is damaged, it may need to be extracted. It is a good idea to discuss your specific condition with your dentist and he or she can decide the best course of action.

While these are common causes of tooth pain, there are other possibilities, such as a sinus infection. The best way to determine the cause of your pain is to visit your dentist for an examination. Your periodontal specialist can detect your specific oral health issue, and begin correct treatment. You can be free from pain, and have better oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!